With the rapid growth of tourism and new residents, Eindhoven faces the challenge of remaining attractive, sustainable, and green. The Van Abbemuseum aims to contribute to this ambition by transforming the outdoor space around the museum into a green place where residents and culture come together, thereby enhancing its own connection with the city.
The entrance on the side of Stratumsedijk 2 is currently the main entrance. Two-thirds of visitors enter the museum from this side. The proposal replaces the current temporary wooden walkways with more greenery and space for (museum) visitors to meet and find inspiration. By adding a staircase leading to the old part of the museum, a continuous route to the entrance side on the Wal is created. The development of this green outdoor space not only connects the museum more physically to the city but also creates a green meeting place in the city center.
Anastasia van Gennip, business director of Van Abbemuseum: The plans ensure that the museum is not only a destination but also a dynamic part of the urban route along the Dommel.
Ecological Marvel Meets Design
Through the redesign, the Dommel will be more integrated with the museum. In the preliminary design, alongside existing plant and animal species, organisms that once lived in this area will also be included, potentially allowing them to find their way back due to the changes. An improvement in local ecology and biodiversity.
The design of the outdoor space comes from the design duo Van Eijk & Van der Lubbe, who recently received the biennial design award from the Cultural Fund of North Brabant.
Timing
The proposal will be on the agenda for decision-making in the city council on April 15. If the council agrees, the final design will be delivered around the summer period, and work will begin in the fall of 2025. The expected completion is in the spring of 2026, marking the 90th anniversary of the Van Abbemuseum.